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What is this medicine?

ENALAPRIL (e NAL a pril) is an ACE inhibitor. This medicine is used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking this medicine except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 1 month, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

breathing problems

change in amount of urine passed

chest pain

feeling faint or lightheaded, falls

fever or chills

numbness or tingling in your fingers or toes

redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth

swelling of ankles, legs

unusual bleeding or bruising or pinpoint red spots on the skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

change in sex drive or performance

cough

sun sensitivity

tiredness

What may interact with this medicine?

diuretics

lithium

medicines for high blood pressure

NSAIDs, medicines for pain and inflammation, like ibuprofen or naproxen

potassium salts or potassium supplements

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

bone marrow disease

heart or blood vessel disease

if you are on a special diet, such as a low salt diet

immune system disease like lupus

kidney or liver disease

low blood pressure

previous swelling of the tongue, face, or lips with difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, or tightening of the throat

an unusual or allergic reaction to enalapril, other ACE inhibitors, insect venom, foods, dyes, or preservatives

pregnant or trying to get pregnant

breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Check your blood pressure as directed. Ask your doctor or health care professional what your blood pressure should be and when you should contact him or her. Call your doctor or health care professional if you notice an irregular or fast heart beat.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this drug affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol can make you more drowsy and dizzy. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

Women should inform their doctor if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. There is a potential for serious side effects to an unborn child. Talk to your health care professional or pharmacist for more information.

Check with your doctor or health care professional if you get an attack of severe diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, or if you sweat a lot. The loss of too much body fluid can make it dangerous for you to take this medicine.

Do not treat yourself for coughs, colds, or pain while you are taking this medicine without asking your doctor or health care professional for advice. Some ingredients may increase your blood pressure.